700 Watt Microwave vs 900 Watt

You’re standing in your kitchen, stomach rumbling, with a plate of leftover lasagna that’s being reheated.

Your old microwave just gave up the ghost, and now you’re faced with an endless array of options.

Among the most common choices you’ll encounter are 700-watt and 900-watt microwaves. But here’s the thing – that 200-watt difference isn’t just a number.

It could mean the difference between perfectly heated meals and frustrating cooking experiences that leave you with cold spots or overcooked edges.

As someone who’s tested countless kitchen appliances, I’ve seen how this seemingly small power gap can significantly impact your daily cooking routine.

But before you make your decision, there’s something crucial about these power ratings that most retailers won’t tell you…

UNDERSTANDING MICROWAVE WATTAGE: THE BASICS

Let’s start with what these numbers mean. Wattage in microwaves is like horsepower in cars – it’s all about power output.

A Microwave watt or wattage is simply the amount of power a microwave oven gives out when it is used for a particular task like cooking or reheating and this power is measured in watts (W).

We can also say that microwave wattage is the power output of a microwave oven.

Studies and customer usage have demonstrated that a higher microwave wattage results in faster food heating.

Take for instance; a 1200-watt microwave will generally cook food quicker than a 700-watt model.

Higher wattage equals more microwave energy to excite the food molecules and generate heat.

I recall my mother preparing a large casserole in our 600-watt microwave oven, but it took longer, and if we weren’t patient and careful, the casserole would end up uneven.

This is when I learned that appropriate wattage/power was essential when preparing certain dishes.

The higher the wattage, the more cooking power your microwave delivers, which typically translates to faster cooking times and more even heating.

I am not saying this to diminish the power of a 700-watt microwave oven or the usefulness of an 800-watt microwave oven, but you must pay attention to the wattage guide, especially during cook times.

High wattage can also cause problems if you aren’t careful.

For example, if a recipe calls for 700 watts but you have an 1100 watts microwave oven, did you know that if you don’t use caution during the cooking time, your food may become overheated or dried out due to the power of the microwave wattage?

Now that you understand why this is significant, let’s move on to establish the difference between the 900-watt microwave oven and the 700-watt microwave oven.

700-WATT MICROWAVES: THE GENTLE GIANT

If you’re wondering can a 700-watt microwave handle all my cooking and reheating needs? the answer might surprise you.

700-watt microwaves, while less powerful than their 900-watt counterparts, offer several advantages:

• More controlled heating for delicate foods
• Lower energy consumption
• Often more compact and space-efficient
• Generally more budget-friendly
• Better for smaller portions

These microwaves excel at tasks like:

– Reheating beverages

– Warming up small portions of leftovers

– Defrosting frozen vegetables

– Making popcorn (though it might take slightly longer)

900-WATT MICROWAVES: THE POWER PLAYER

Many people ask, is a 900-watt microwave good enough? For most household needs, a 900-watt microwave hits the sweet spot between power and functionality.

Here’s why:

– Faster cooking times

– More even heating distribution

– Better for larger portions

– More versatile cooking capabilities

– Ideal for most microwave-ready meals

REAL-WORLD PERFORMANCE COMPARISON

Let’s break down how these two power levels perform in everyday situations:

700W VS 900W – WHICH IS BETTER?

900W is better for:

– Faster cooking (20% quicker)

– More even heating

– Better for frozen foods

700W is better for:

– Small spaces

– Lower power consumption

– Budget-conscious buyers

Finally, it is cooking needs and budget that determine your preference.

700W VS 900W MICROWAVE PRICE

700W microwaves typically cost $60-100

900W microwaves typically cost $80-150

Price difference: $20-50 more for 900W models

Exact prices vary by brand and features

MAKING THE RIGHT CHOICE: KEY CONSIDERATIONS

Space and Installation – Both 700-watt and 900-watt microwaves come in various sizes, but generally:

• 700-watt models tend to be more compact
• 900-watt units often require more counterspace
• Installation requirements are typically similar

ENERGY EFFICIENCY

While 900-watt microwaves consume more power per minute, they often use less energy overall because they cook food faster.

However, if you typically heat small portions, a 700-watt model might be more energy-efficient for your needs.

COOKING HABITS ASSESSMENT

Consider your typical usage:

– Frequent reheating of single portions? A 700-watt might suffice.

– Cooking for multiple people? A 900-watt could be more efficient.

– Heavy use of frozen meals? 900-watt is recommended.

– Primarily heating beverages and small items? 700-watt will do fine.

RELATED : COMPARISON BETWEEEN 900 WATTS AND 1000 WATTS MICROWAVE OVEN

SMART USAGE TIPS FOR BOTH WATTAGES

Here is how to adjust cooking times. When using recipes designed for standard 1000-watt microwaves:

For 900-watt: Add 10-15% to the cooking time.

For 700-watt: Add 25-30% to the cooking time.

MAXIMIZING PERFORMANCE

Regardless of wattage, follow these tips:

– Use microwave-safe containers.

– Cover foods to retain moisture.

– Allow standing time after cooking.

– Stir or rotate food when possible.

– Use the proper power level for different foods.

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR SAFETY FEATURES

Both wattages typically offer similar safety features:

– Child locks

– Door safety switches

– Thermal cutoffs

– Glass turntable plates.

MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS

Maintenance needs are generally the same for both:

– Regular cleaning

– Door seal inspection

– Turntable care

– Ventilation checks

THE VERDICT

The choice between a 700-watt and 900-watt microwave ultimately depends on your specific needs.

For small households or occasional use, a 700-watt microwave offers sufficient power while potentially saving space and energy.

However, if you frequently cook larger portions or use your microwave extensively, a 900-watt model might better serve your needs with its faster cooking times and more even heating.

Remember, wattage is just one factor to consider. Features, size, and brand reliability should also play into your decision.

FINAL RECOMMENDATIONS

For Single Users/Small Spaces:

– 700-watt microwaves offer adequate power for basic needs

– Perfect for dormitories, small apartments, or office spaces

– Ideal for those who primarily reheat single portions

For Families/Regular Cooks:

– 900-watt microwaves provide more versatility

– Better suited for frequent use and larger portions

– Recommended for those who rely heavily on their microwave

Still unsure which wattage is right for you? Consider tracking your microwave usage for a week, noting portion sizes and types of foods you typically heat.

This practical approach will help you make an informed decision based on your actual needs rather than specifications alone.

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Sarah Emirone

Editor | Kitchen safety Advocate and Product Expert at SafeKitchn

Welcome to Sarah Emirone's Home and Kitchen Essentials Simplified!

With a passion for culinary delights and 8 years of expertise in the dinnerware Industry, I've curated a collection that blends style with safety and functionality.

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